Thirteen desserts

Treize desserts en Provence

13 desserts - Tradition de Noël en Provence

Thirteen desserts

Type	Christmas
Course	Dessert
Place of origin	France
Region or state	Provence
Main ingredients	Various
Cookbook: Thirteen desserts   Media: Thirteen desserts

The thirteen desserts (les treize desserts) are a traditional Christmas dessert assortment in the region of Provence, France. This custom is part of the larger Christmas celebration and is typically enjoyed after the Gros Souper, the grand Christmas Eve dinner.

Composition

The thirteen desserts symbolize Jesus Christ and the Twelve Apostles at the Last Supper. The exact composition of the desserts can vary, but they generally include:

• Pompe à l'huile – a type of sweet bread made with olive oil.
• Nougat – both black and white varieties.
• Fougasse – a type of flatbread.
• Dried fruits – such as figs, raisins, and apricots.
• Fresh fruits – such as apples, pears, and grapes.
• Nuts – including walnuts, hazelnuts, and almonds.
• Calissons – a traditional candy made from almond paste and candied melon.
• Quince paste – a sweet, thick jelly made from quince fruit.

Cultural Significance

The tradition of the thirteen desserts is deeply rooted in Provençal culture and is a reflection of the region's agricultural bounty. Each item in the assortment has its own symbolic meaning, often tied to local religious and cultural beliefs. For example, the nougats represent the duality of good and evil, while the dried fruits and nuts are known as the "four beggars" (les quatre mendiants), symbolizing the four mendicant monastic orders: Dominicans, Franciscans, Carmelites, and Augustinians.

Preparation and Presentation

The desserts are typically prepared in advance and displayed on a table covered with three white tablecloths, representing the Holy Trinity. The table is often decorated with candles and Christmas decorations. The desserts are meant to be shared among family and friends, emphasizing the communal aspect of the celebration.

Related Traditions

The thirteen desserts are part of a broader set of Provençal Christmas traditions, which also include the Gros Souper, the Pastorale, and the Santons (traditional Provençal nativity scene figurines). These customs collectively contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the region and are celebrated with great enthusiasm by the local population.

See Also

• Christmas in France
• Provençal cuisine
• French Christmas traditions
• Santons
• Gros Souper